Turn off your phone straight away
To prevent any short circuits, switch off your phone as soon as possible.
Take out any removable parts
Take out the battery (if it's removable - obviously) and SIM card from your phone to prevent any potential damage.
Dry your phone with a soft towel
Use a dry cloth or towel to gently pat your phone dry. Don't rub or shake the phone, as this can push water further into your device.
Wait patiently for your phone to air dry!
After the phone has completely dried, reinsert the battery and SIM card, and try turning it on. If it doesn't turn on or work properly, you may need to take it to a professional for repair.
And remember, prevention is always the best approach, so try to keep your phone away from water sources in the first place!
Lastly, don't bother putting your phone in rice. It's not a guaranteed solution so it’s best to follow the steps listed above and wait patiently for your phone to dry.
And remember that while new phones are advertised as ‘water resistant’, this doesn’t mean they are waterproof. Water resistance just implies the device can handle some exposure to water before substantial damage occurs.
Here’s what you shouldn’t do!
- Don't insert objects such as cotton buds inside the charging port.
- Don't press any keys or buttons on your phone.
- Don't shake, tap, or bang the phone.
- Don't put a fan on it or blow on it.
- Don't charge the phone. Even if you have a wireless charging mat.
With a bit of luck, once your phone is dry it could go on working just fine. Or it might go on working, but with some strange new glitches. Keep a watchful eye over the next few days and test its performance on key tasks like playing music, taking photos, etc. If you do notice problems, you may have to get it repaired or replaced.
In the worst-case scenario, if your phone is damaged beyond repair, here’s how you can recycle it, to keep it out of landfill.
How to recycle your old or broken mobile phone
Recycle your mobile phone via post (and it’s free!)
Keep old technology out of landfill
